After spending several weeks poring over more than 1,000 stories submitted for the Dusty Manuscript Contest, the judges of the competition have selected their top 20 entries.
The selected entries are:
โข Devilโs Pawn by Kukogho Iruesiri Samson
โข Home to the hill by Eunice Ekelaka
โข Sambisa by Mohammed, Fatima Aliko
โข The Smell of rain by Nneoma Otuegbe
โข Omon by Henri Yeri
โข The Orchid Protocol Onochie Emeka Onyekwena
โข Love Unexpected by Pailyin John
โข Children of the Night by Chimaobi Olayinka Ahuekwe
โข Giants by Adeyinka Isioye
โข The Fugitive by Chidubem Akala
โข Kamaluโs Symphony by Hayzard Solum
โข The Kidnapping by Oputuboye T.J. Krukrubo
โข Hues of the Sun by Ally Oyedokun, Maryam Wuraola
โข In the Half-Dark by Ayosojumi Adeniyi Akinsanya
โข Book of Lost Words by Ikechukwu Nwaogu
โข Secrets beyond the Red Gate by Sylvia Ozomena
โข Lyrics by Adejoke Olamuyiwa
โข The Other Side of Truth by Nnema Anieto
โข Identity by Victor Oladutemu
โข The Way We Do It Here Now by Onyeka Ibe
The judges, which include renowned authors Eghosa Imasuen, Yejide Kilanko and Toni Kan, as well as an Assistant Professor of English Language Dr Ainehi Edoro-Glines, carefully selected the top 20 entries based on originality, language, grammar, narrative strength, coherence and dramatic intensity.
Throughout the selection process, the judges were not made aware of the identities of contestants.
The authors of the shortlisted manuscripts will now proceed to a 2-day Writers Boot Camp where they will interact with and learn from accomplished authors on the art and business of writing.
Organized in partnership with publishing houses Okadabooks and Farafina, The Dusty Manuscript Contest is part of GTBankโs YouREAD initiative, which is aimed at promoting the culture of reading and inspiring the next generation of award-winning and globally renowned authors.
To read excerpts of shortlisted manuscripts visit:
http://bit.ly/dustytop20